Democrats Find Candidate For Agriculture Job

January 25, 2002|By Mark Silva Tallahassee Bureau

TALLAHASSEE — "Dr. Andy" Michaud, a Winter Park veterinarian and Democrat who ran unsuccessfully for the Legislature, has entered the race for state commissioner of agriculture with a campaign focused on consumer protection.

Rick Dantzler, a former legislator, abandoned his campaign for the post on Friday with complaints about the pressures of fund raising. Michaud, 43, fills the void that Dantzler's decision left in the Democratic primary contest for a powerful Cabinet office.

"I believe strong Democratic views should be represented," Michaud said Thursday, outlining a campaign focusing on helping people. "We want to protect the consumers' rights. We want them to be aware that food sources are labeled We have to protect the true farmers of Florida, the people in the field."

The Democratic Party has courted a high-profile replacement since Dantzler withdrew.

Michaud -- or "Dr. Andy" as he appears on ballots -- says he's the man.